Mary Lynn Dotson (née Pharr) of Gloucester, Virginia, passed away on May 20, 2025 at the age of 72.

Born on August 3, 1952 in Hampton, Virginia, she dedicated her life to the field of special education. Mary earned her master’s degree from the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. With a deep commitment to helping others, she worked tirelessly in the field of special education. Her career was marked by unwavering dedication and a profound sense of empathy for the students she served. She will be remembered for her kindness and consideration for all the special needs students she worked with over the years.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Emory; her sisters, Martha and Donna, and her parents, Edwin and Viola. She leaves behind a loving extended family: nieces, Christine Robinson Verfurth and Karen Robinson Dickman; grand-niece, Elise Regan Verfurth, and grand-nephew, Benjamin Robinson Verfurth, on the Pharr side of Mary’s family, and many many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews on the Dotson side.

May her legacy of compassion continue to inspire those who knew her. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at Riverside Walter Reed Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and the hospice team for the compassionate care they provided to Mary during her time there and in her final days. Your kindness, dedication, and support will never be forgotten. You truly made a difference, and we are forever grateful.

In honor of her love for her dog Cleo, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society.

Faulkner Funeral Home, Bristow-Faulkner Chapel is assisting the family.